China has advised its citizens to leave Iran as security risks in the Middle East escalate. In a social media statement on Friday, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged Chinese nationals in Iran to strengthen safety measures and prepare to depart the country as soon as possible. The ministry also advised against traveling to Iran under current conditions. Chinese embassies and consulates in Iran and neighboring countries will assist citizens in relocating via commercial flights or land routes.

Additionally, Chinese citizens in Israel have been instructed to remain on high alert. State broadcaster CCTV reported that they were advised to avoid unnecessary outings and to familiarize themselves with nearby bomb shelters and evacuation routes. On the same day, the United States authorized the withdrawal of non-essential embassy staff from Israel as Washington reinforced its military presence in the region, including the expected arrival of the USS Gerald R. Ford near Israel’s coast.

Despite mediation efforts between Iran and the United States through Oman, hopes for easing tensions remain uncertain.